★★★★
Frankly the Tiffin Top is one of the most beautiful treks I've ever had. I didn't give a five star rating only because there are no directions anywhere on the way and I had serious doubt which way to take at least in one juction where I saw some people taking the wrong route. Apart from that, the king cobble stone path to the top is good enough to walk and it is not too steep. I went in the rainy season in August, there were very few visitors and so the ticket counter was closed. Otherwise you need to buy a ticket for 50. Several reviews mentioned monkeys but I saw none on the way, probably also because it was not tourist season. Thank God it did not rain. Otherwise the trek would have been difficult. The view from the top is really beautiful but you need to be careful up there as there are no barricades. I think they are building some. There are two restaurants in the top where you can buy water to tea to soft drinks and even full meals. Of course it's expensive. I really enjoyed the trek all the way from the lake.
★★★★
The sunrise point is exceptionally beautiful, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. The trek is approximately 1.5 kilometers, with a somewhat steep incline, but the experience is certainly worthwhile.
★★★★★
Great Trail. You can reach the top either by horses or by foot. Would highly recommend by foot. I did after heavy rainfall and didn't faced any issue. Well maintained and there is shops on top too. Very genuine and nice people. Slopes somewhere are slippery. Wouldn't recommend for people with knee issue or senior citizen
★★★★★
If you're in Nainital and craving more than just lakes and boating, Tiffin Top (also known as Dorothy's Seat) is a perfect escape into the hills. It's not overcrowded, not too commercial, and offers a panoramic view of Nainital town, the lake, and the Himalayan range--especially on a clear day.
This spot truly feels like a hidden picnic patch carved out by nature, meant for those who enjoy peace, panoramic views, and a little bit of effort.
How to Reach / Transportation:
Option 1: Trekking (most popular & rewarding)
!Ticket price is 50 rupees per head by walking
!Ticket price with horse ride 100rupees per head
Starting Point: Ayarpatta / Sherwood College area
Distance: ~4 km uphill from Mallital (one way)
Time Required: 40 to 90 minutes depending on fitness level and weather
Trail is shaded with trees, birds chirping, and occasional monkeys (don't carry loose food in hand).
Option 2: Horse Ride
Available near Cave Garden or Mallital
Cost: 600-800 (round trip, may vary seasonally)
Great option for those who can't hike but still want the view
Option 3: By Car (partial)
You can drive or take a local taxi up to a point, then walk ~15-20 minutes
Roads are narrow and parking is limited
What You'll See at the Top:
A beautiful stone bench (Dorothy's Seat) made in memory of an English artist who died in a plane crash.
A large open area surrounded by trees--ideal for a tiffin picnic, reading, or simply sitting in silence.
Breathtaking views of Nainital Lake, forest ridges, and the Kumaon hills.
On clear mornings, you may even glimpse snow-capped peaks in the distance.
Trekking Precautions:
Wear proper shoes - trail can be slippery during monsoon.
Carry water - there are no vendors once you're on the trail.
Bring a light jacket or shawl - weather turns cool quickly, even in summer.
Start early (before 10 AM) - for best views and to avoid afternoon cloud cover or fog.
Avoid feeding monkeys - they can get aggressive.
Why Tiffin Top is Special:
Unlike commercial viewpoints, this one offers quiet beauty, not chaos. It's ideal for travelers who:
Want a calm place to sit and enjoy nature
Love photography, sketching, or meditation
Prefer nature over noise
Tiffin Top is not for the lazy tourist. It's for the nature lover.
You won't find stalls, music, or crowd selfies here. You'll find wind through the trees, raw mountain air, a story in every stone, and a view that makes the climb worth it.
Go for the hike. Stay for the peace. Return with calm.
★★★★★
Tiffin Top offers stunning hilltop views, ideal for trekking, picnics, and photography. Peaceful, scenic, and worth the short hike.
